Project & Research Associate – Real Estate Development & Architecture

The Makhanya Group; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A fast-growing property development company in Sandton, Gauteng, is seeking a Project & Research Associate. This role involves translating project briefs, conducting research, and engaging stakeholders to shape iconic developments across Africa. The ideal candidate will have a degree in Architecture or Real Estate Development and possess a bold creative vision. Mentorship from the founder and opportunities for personal development are included.

Benefits

Large bonuses when projects are funded

Weekly mentorship from the Founder

Personal development plan

Exposure to iconic projects

Qualifications

• Highly driven, proactive, and talented individual.
• Ability to prepare architectural drawings or visual presentations.

Responsibilities

• Translate project briefs into initial drawings and concept notes.
• Conduct deep research on local and international developments.
• Monitor and report on new developments and policy changes.

Skills

Creativity

Research

Communication

Entrepreneurial mindset

Education

Degree in Architecture

Degree in Real Estate Development

Job description

Job Description for Project & Research Associate at MAKHANYA Group

The MAKHANYA Group, based in Sandton, Gauteng, South Africa, is a fast-growing property development company focused on large-scale projects across Africa. We are seeking a Project & Research Associate with an architecture or real estate development background—someone driven, creative, and ambitious who can help us shape iconic cities and skylines inspired by landmarks like Burj Khalifa, Hudson Yards, or Marina Bay Sands.

This role is suited for a visionary individual who thinks beyond floor plans and is passionate about legacy, scale, and impact. The position offers mentorship from a founder who is actively involved in building at scale.

Key Responsibilities

1. Translate project briefs into initial drawings, mood boards, or concept notes
2. Conduct deep research on local and international developments
3. Identify investors, architects, and stakeholders for collaboration
4. Attend strategic meetings and assist with project follow-ups
5. Monitor and report on new developments, land opportunities, and policy changes
6. Prepare visual and written content for proposals and investor decks
7. Participate in weekly KPI reporting and founder-led performance scoring

What We're Looking For

• Degree in Architecture or Real Estate Development
• Highly driven, proactive, and talented
• Global thinking, local action
• Fast, independent worker with a bold creative vision
• Strong researcher and clear communicator
• Ability to prepare architectural drawings or visual presentations
• Entrepreneurial mindset, solutions-focused, thrives under pressure
• Obsessed with legacy, scale, and impact

Performance Measurement

Each week, your performance will be scored by the Founder based on:

• Creativity
• Research insights
• Stakeholder engagement
• Speed & quality of output
• Execution of goals

This system replaces micromanagement, empowering your performance.

What You'll Get

• Modest salary with large bonuses when projects are funded
• Weekly mentorship from the Founder
• Personal development plan to become a global real estate leader
• Exposure to iconic projects and international standards
• A front-row seat to Africa's next landmark developments

How to Apply

Send your CV, a short paragraph about your 20-year vision, and samples of your work (drawings, concepts, visuals) that demonstrate your big dreams. Dare to Dream. Build with Us. Shape the Future.